Brain Bucket

ViewOnline Staff

What can I say about AGV helmets? We could start with good looking. While putting them through the ringer, I received numerous compliments on the look and style of these helmets. But looks and style aren't really what you buy a helmet for, right? (Right?). We gave two of AGV's helmets, the Ghost and the X-vent, a total test drive.

The Specs - AGV uses an advanced composite, ultralite fiber rather than a hard plastic, which not only reduces the weight but also gives incread strength remaining comfortable. And, you guessed it, this advanced fiber also provides greater protection in the event of a crash.

The Ghost features a triple airflow vent system and an antifog sheild, quick release buckles and a soft antisweat liner.The X-vent, being the top of the line in AGV helmets, features six airflows which is far superior to the triple system in the other helmets, and the liner is a removable coolmax which features a much heavier padding for greater protection in the event of an accident. It also features an antifog/antiscratch polycarbonate lens with a tear off system for racers. AGV says that their visors can be removed without the aid of tools and it is simple enough that it can even be done while wearing gloves, so I pulled on my gloves and went to work......they were right, it's too easy.

AGV was also nice enough to send along a breath guard as well as a wind guard for cooler weather, and even with the antifog lens its a good idea to have them.

You can pick up the Ghost for about $200 and the X-vent for $500. You may think this is a little steep, but remember you can have as many helmets as you want but you only have one head. It's up to you what degree of protection you want.

You can learn more about AGV's line of helmets by visiting their website at www.agv.com. Or give them a call at 301-663-8171. And remember whether you ride street, track or motocross a good helmet can save your life, so ride safe and I'll see you on the road.